It took a while for the Avalon High boys volleyball team to find its groove, but the Lancers seem to have hit their stride just in time. They slipped into the CIF-SS playoffs with a late win and are now set to host a second-round playoff game.
Despite some struggles down the stretch, the Lancers went into the Academy League tournament and got into rhythm. They won two matches, both 3-0 in sets, and earned a spot in the CIF-SS playoffs as the No. 5 team out of the Academy League.
Their first-round match was at South El Monte, the No. 4 team out of the Mission Valley League. The Lancers took down the Eagles in four sets, 25-17, 28-26, 25-17, 25-21. It marked the 8th CIF-SS win over the past three seasons and was a testament to the hard work, dedication and culture the program has established in recent years, Head Coach Carlos Martinez said.
“I couldn’t be more proud of this group of young men and the way they continue to rise to every challenge,” Martinez said.
Erick Madriz has led the team with 28 kills and Matthew De La Rosa added 13 kills. Nathan Jones had seven kills and four blocks, while Santiago Noriz has anchored the back row with 52 digs and added four aces. Andres Silva set up the offensive attack with 48 assists.
Martinez called it a total team effort and another big step in the team’s journey. The Lancers are scheduled to host Bethel Baptist of Santa Ana, the No. 5 team out of the San Joaquin League. The Warriors defeated Pacific Lutheran in five sets to advance to the second round.
The second-round match is scheduled for Monday at 5 p.m. at Avalon School. The Lancers are requesting fans wear black, as they are calling it a black out game. Martinez said his team is ready to go.
“We’re hungry to make a deep run and this team showed exactly why,” Martinez said.
